Bill Goldsmith on the power of children's theater

Tuesday

Aug 24, 2010 at 12:01 AMAug 24, 2010 at 8:34 AM

(Caption: Just one of many Columbus Children's Theatre shows that showcased the talents of several stars of tomorrow was the 1992 production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, with future professional actors Josh Radnor (tallest, center) and Steven Boyer among the dwarf. Credit: CCT)

Since he discovered the joys of performing theater as a child, William Goldsmith has been a big believer in the power of children's theater. "Children with theater experiences do better in this world," said the Executive Artistic Director of Columbus Children's Theatre, who I profiled in the Sunday Arts section. "They learn communication skills, people skills, team-building, the ability to stand in front of an audience and how to work together with a diverse group towards one goal."

(Caption: Just one of many Columbus Children's Theatre shows that showcased the talents of several stars of tomorrow was the 1992 production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, with future professional actors Josh Radnor (tallest, center) and Steven Boyer among the dwarf. Credit: CCT)

Since he discovered the joys of performing theater as a child, William Goldsmith has been a big believer in the power of children's theater. “Children with theater experiences do better in this world,” said the Executive Artistic Director of Columbus Children's Theatre, who I profiled in the Sunday Arts section. “They learn communication skills, people skills, team-building, the ability to stand in front of an audience and how to work together with a diverse group towards one goal.”

Goldsmith, 59, has led Columbus Children's Theatre since he took over in 1989, when the struggling troupe was on the verge of folding. "Today, we’re one of the big guys on the block who can help smaller arts groups with props and advice," Goldsmith said. In recent years under his stewardship, the company has operated on a balanced budget of about $800,000 and offers a year-round public season of musicals and plays, an extensive touring season mostly to area schools and an academy offering classes to what Goldsmith justifiably could refer to as the stars of tomorrow. Among those who began at CCT and have gone on to successful careers in the performing arts on Broadway and Hollywood are Josh Radnor (TV's How I Met Your Mother) and Broadway ingenue Jessica Grove (The Wizard of Oz, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Sunday in the Park with George) “We’re making a difference by touching the lives of young people,” Goldsmith said “When children see a play or musical for the first time, it’s our responsibility to make sure they have a good time and want to come back.”

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